Cutaways are a common term in film and TV production, referring to shots that interrupt the main action to show something else. The spelling of the word can be confusing, but it is pronounced /ˈkʌtəweɪz/. The first syllable is stressed, and the second syllable is pronounced like the word "away." The "-cut-" part is easy to remember, as it refers to the action of cutting away from the main scene. The "-aways" part may seem strange, but it is simply a suffix, indicating that something is being taken away or removed from the scene.
Cutaways are a type of visual technique employed in various forms of media, such as films, television shows, documentaries, or even presentations, to provide additional information or emphasize specific elements of the narrative. Often formatted as a brief interruption from the main event or primary subject, cutaways offer viewers a temporary diversion or a glimpse into related or supplementary material.
In cinematography, cutaways usually entail a shift in focus to a different subject or location within the same scene or sequence. These shots are typically devoid of any significant action or dialogue happening in the main scene, and instead, they focus on peripheral details that complement or enhance the primary footage. Cutaways can showcase reactions of characters, showcase objects or environments relevant to the main scene, or provide glimpses of events happening concurrently.
In television production, cutaways are frequently employed to smooth out the transitions between scenes or to enhance the storytelling by presenting a parallel narrative or offering additional context. They can be used as a storytelling device to provide exposition, create suspense, or add comedic relief. Cutaways are also often utilized in documentaries and news programs to illustrate or reinforce the spoken content, offering viewers a visual representation of the information being conveyed.
Overall, cutaways serve as essential tools in visual media, enabling storytellers to expand upon or augment the narrative. By presenting supplementary material or briefly diverting attention to related elements, they enhance the viewer's understanding, engagement, and overall viewing experience.
The word "cutaways" is derived from the verb "cut away". The term originated in the early 19th century and was primarily used in the context of tailoring and fashion. In tailoring, "cut away" refers to a style where the front panels of a coat or jacket are cut and shaped in a way that they curve away from the body, creating a distinctive look. This term gradually extended to other areas, such as film and television production, where "cutaways" refer to brief shots or scenes that are interspersed between the main shots to provide additional context or details. The name "cutaway" in this context symbolizes the removal of the primary shot, creating a visual break or diversion for the audience.